Arrests for driving under the influence in the Bay Area have increased this holiday season in comparison to 2009, according to the California Highway Patrol.
But, Fairfax police are reporting no DUI-related arrests over the holiday weekend so far. San Anselmo won’t have accurate statistics until Monday morning, when the county’s DUI task force, dubbed “Avoid the Marin 13,” tallies the county’s arrest reports.
Overall, the CHP has made 40 driving under the influence arrests in the Bay Area between Dec. 24 and Dec. 25, according to the police — that number is up from 39 DUI arrests police made last year.
No fatalities were reported during the CHP’s holiday enforcement period and none were reported in 2009.
A total of 258 drivers have been arrested on DUI-related charges across the state during the CHP’s holiday enforcement period.
The CHP continues its aggressive enforcement period that started Friday evening and will last through midnight on Jan. 2, which is meant to crack down on drunken drivers, speed violators and drivers who aren’t buckling up.
“The holiday season is all about having good times with family and friends, and about sharing and giving,” CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow said. “We want to make sure everyone enjoys their festivities and therefore our goal is to ensure you and your loved ones arrive at your destination safely.” Â
“If your celebration involves alcohol, please designate a non-drinking driver,” Farrow said.
During last year’s Christmas holiday enforcement, 22 people were killed in traffic collisions in California. Among those killed, more than half were not wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash, the CHP said. There were 1,104 DUI arrests statewide during the 2009 Christmas enforcement period. 
This article is by Bay City News and Angela Hart.
